Anna Marie Ida Wiesehahn

Anna Marie Ida Wiesehahn, 87, of Matthews, North Carolina, formerly of Concord, North Carolina, and Wayne, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 25, 2026.

Anna Marie was born in Queens, New York, to the late Ludwig Widerka and Anna Maria Recks Widerka. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of almost 70 years, George John Wiesehahn; her parents; and her brother, Ludwig Widerka.

Known affectionately as "Anna Banana," "AB," "Omni," and most importantly, "MawMaw" to her grandchildren and many others who loved her, Anna Marie was a devoted mother, grandmother, and friend whose warmth and generosity touched countless lives. Her home was always open, her pantry was always stocked, and her pool was always ready to welcome family, friends, neighbors, and anyone fortunate enough to spend time with her. She had a remarkable gift for making people feel at home, creating a place where laughter, good food, and lasting memories were always in abundance.

Anna Marie devoted herself to raising her children and took great pride in being a stay-at-home mother during their formative years. Later, she enjoyed a successful career as an executive secretary, working for the Wayne Township School System, Kleine & Company, and American Cyanamid in New Jersey. Following retirement, she and George fulfilled their dream of relocating to North Carolina to be closer to family, especially their cherished grandchildren, who brought her immeasurable joy and were the true center of her world.

Family was the cornerstone of Anna Marie's life. She found happiness in gathering loved ones around the table for family meals, holidays, which included games of Tile Rummy, Pokeno, and countless card games. Whether at family gatherings, the Levine Senior Center, or Brookdale Weddington Park, she was known for her competitive spirit, and infectious laugh. An active member of the Women's Club of Wayne and St. John Neumann Church's 50+ Club, Anna Marie built lifelong friendships and was always ready to lend a helping hand or share a smile.

When she wasn't spending time with family or proudly attending her grandchildren's sporting events, band performances, graduations, and other activities, Anna Marie and George embraced every opportunity to travel and explore with their dear friends. Whether on vacations, cruises, or weekend adventures, they treasured the experiences they shared and the friendships they cultivated throughout their lives.

Anna Marie will be remembered for her generous heart, welcoming spirit, unwavering devotion to family, and ability to make everyone feel like they belonged. Her kindness, quick wit, and loving presence will be deeply missed but forever remembered by all who knew and loved her.

Anna Marie is survived by her son, Michael (Amy) Wiesehahn of Columbia, South Carolina; her daughter, Maria (Bill) Romeo of Concord, North Carolina; and her five beloved grandchildren, who were the pride and joy of her life. She also leaves behind many extended family members and dear friends who will cherish her memory.

Anna Marie will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband, George, at Salisbury National Cemetery, where they will be reunited in their final resting place after a lifetime of love and devotion to one another.

A graveside service in celebration of Anna Marie and George's lives will be held in July at Salisbury National Cemetery. Please check back soon for service information. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association – Western Carolina Chapter or the Foundation for Women's Cancer, in honor of Anna Marie's memory and the causes that touched her family's life.

"A loving wife, devoted mother, cherished MawMaw, and loyal friend, Anna Marie's greatest joy was bringing people together and making them feel loved. Her legacy lives on in the family she treasured and the countless lives she touched."